On Independence Day, cops zoom on high-end motorbike

The Mumbai traffic police on Independence Day for the first time zoomed on a high-tech patrolling bike designed by a Mumbai biker a few months ago. The bike, a high-end fully-loaded Royal Enfield Classic 350 cc was designed by Gabriel Zuzarte, a bike designer and founder of Road Rage Custom Builds, for the city police. The traffic department, which is awaiting approval from the government, thinks the bike is futuristic, efficient and has all the necessary gadgets and technology.

"The bike is definitely advanced and will help us manage law and order situation more efficiently. However, we are awaiting approval from the government and also negotiating the price," said BK Upadhyay, joint commissioner of police, traffic.

The high-end bike was driven by several policemen on Friday morning on Worli Seaface from the traffic headquarters.

The bike is currently priced at Rs4.5 lakh. "I'd like to roll out at least 100 bikes in the city for the police. With its features and technology, it is going to revolutionise policing in the city. The feedback from the users has been great. I am waiting for the approval," said Zuzarte.

The bike is equipped with machinery and equipment such as all-weather cameras in front and rear that can help policemen capture evidence at the spot and a real-time GPS system to help them reach a spot on time. It also boasts of an all-weather laptop and printer that will help them fine offenders and keep a track record of the same.

"This also means no written chalan. The amount will automatically pop up on the screen and the receipt will be dispensed from the printer," said Zuzarte.

The bike, which can also be used as an official escort, will have storage boxes for first aid, gear to cordon off crime scenes, tents and forensic tools. Apart from bright LED flicker lights, high-power torch, fire extinguisher and custom-made seats, it will also have extra batteries for gadgets and protective gear for the riders.